I remember a time like that, although this was the early 2000's. I joined a group of students at the local university. I must admit, Although the students where abit arrogant, I learned alot not only from them but from the staff that worked at the Computer Science department. I also learnt that an old family friend helped start the Internet in South Africa. From that, I learnt alot about history and to think outside of the box, with what they "Jimmy Rigged" to save bandwidth in the early days.
I have been this mailing list for years and like then, I have learnt alot. Not only about history but the basis for the technology we have now. Unlike the students, it's extremely rare that egos come in to play. I think this is the first. Granted I only read about 80% of the list due to time.
If I may be so bold and to ask you to to maybe remain a subscriber to the list. As Larry has pointed out it would be a shame to have somebody with knowledge depart due to a rare occurrence.